Nearly One Third of Romaine Lettuce E. Coli Food Poisoning Victims Are in Los Angeles County
Nearly One Third of Romaine Lettuce E. Coli Food Poisoning Victims Are in Los Angeles County
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The national E. coli outbreak that has been linked to tainted romaine lettuce announced this week has claimed the most number of patients in Los Angeles County, health officials say. According to a KTLA news report, nine out of the 32 people who have been infected in this outbreak across 11 states between Oct. 8 and Oct. 31 were Los Angeles County residents.
The Orange County Health Care Agency has reported one case as well. Ten of the people who fell ill in this outbreak live in California, officials said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that 13 people were hospitalized due to this national outbreak including one who developed kidney failure. So far, no deaths have been reported.
Stay Away from the Lettuce
The CDC has urged everyone to stay away from any type of romaine lettuce and has asked retailers to stop selling them and restaurants to not serve them. Those who have romaine lettuce at home should toss them out and sanitize their refrigerator drawers and shelves where they were kept, officials said. This advice applies to all types of romaine lettuce including whole heads of romaine, hearts of romaine and bags and boxes of pre-cut lettuce and salad mixes that contain the greens including baby romaine, spring mix and Caesar salad. The CDC has not yet traced the source of the outbreak.
However, L.A. County public health officials have said they are working closely with federal health officials in their investigation. Earlier this year, another E. coli outbreak linked to romaine lettuce from Yuma, Arizona, sickened about 200 people and killed five between March and June. Those affected by E. coli food poisoning typically suffer symptoms such as bloody diarrhea and stomach cramps. While some recover without complications, others may require hospitalization. Some may suffer a serious condition known as hemolytic uremic syndrome or HUS, which could cause kidney failure.
If You Have Become Ill
If you or a loved one has suffered an illness due to tainted romaine lettuce, it is important that you seek and obtain prompt medical attention. Report your illness to the local healthcare agency and contact an experienced Los Angeles food poisoning lawyer who can help you secure maximum compensation for your losses. You may be able to obtain compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, permanent injuries and pain and suffering.
